2024 Gift Guide for People Living With ALS and Caregivers

Ashley RosenbrockFoundation Blog, Home Page, Support Services

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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Discover thoughtful and practical gift ideas in our Gift Guide for People Living with ALS, developed with the help of our support services team. Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or looking for ways to support someone navigating ALS, our guide features ideas drawn from our team’s experience working with people living with ALS, and designed to bring comfort, accessibility, and joy. From adaptive tools and wellness products to meaningful keepsakes, these gifts are tailored to bring ease and holiday cheer.

Out-of-home activities:

Give the gift of memorable experiences by purchasing tickets or planning outings. Whether it’s a concert, theater performance, museum visit, or sporting event, these outings offer a wonderful way to connect, create lasting memories, and enjoy a change of scenery. Rochelle Walwer, LCSW, a support services coordinator, recommends memberships to places like the Morton Arboretum or Chicago Botanical Garden, which have accessible trails, and accessible theater tickets to shows right here in Chicago. Be sure to consider accessibility needs, such as wheelchair-friendly venues and seating arrangements, to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

Paid Experiences

Free Experiences

Entertainment:

Whether you choose to shop for physical gifts or one-of-a-kind experiences, we have tons of ideas to add to your shopping list this year. From accessible games and puzzles to audiobooks and streaming subscriptions, these options provide engaging ways to stay entertained while accommodating varying needs and abilities. Karen Raley Steffens, RN, CHPN, CCM, a support services coordinator, recommends Songfinch to create original songs.

Capturing those memorable moments:

Rochelle recommends Wi-Fi digital photo frames as a great way to display photos and share with family and friends. Sometimes a fresh set of photos or a simple greeting card can mean the world.

Personal care: 

Everyone deserves a little time for self-care and relaxation. Easton Stevenson, LCSW, a support services coordinator, recommends warm blankets for sitting or resting in a wheelchair. Gift certificates to a spa or salon are also a great option for more in-depth pampering.

Making daily life a little easier:

Living with ALS changes a lot about day-to-day routines, and simple things can help make those activities less of a challenge. Rochelle and Michelle Shaker, MSW, LCSW recommend adaptive clothing, which can be found online from many retailers. Her favorite is the JCPenny.

Accessibility and Ease of Movement 

Give the gift of comfort and independence this year. Our staff recommends foam grips that fit on all different-sized utensils and can be easily transported.

Communication:

Tablets and Smart Home products serve a variety of purposes and can be a very useful house/life upgrade this year. Karen recommends investing in Google Home products to help keep you connected, while Anne Marie Doyle, MA, CCC-SLP, with her extensive experience as a speech-language pathologist, suggests boogie boards (writing tablets) and voice amplifiers.

For Caregivers

Caregivers play an invaluable role in supporting individuals living with ALS, and thoughtful gifts can show appreciation for their dedication and hard work. Consider gifts that promote relaxation and self-care, such as spa gift certificates, cozy blankets, or aromatherapy diffusers. Practical items like meal delivery services or gift cards for groceries can help ease their daily responsibilities. Personalized gifts can offer a meaningful touch, while experiences can provide much-needed downtime. A thoughtful gift reminds caregivers that their efforts are seen and valued.

Relaxation

Entertainment:

Capturing those memorable moments:

Practical Gifts

 

The Les Turner ALS Foundation is committed to providing care and support to help all families navigate their ALS journey with confidence and resilience. Please make a gift so we can continue to deliver that care and support. Together, we will create a world free of ALS.